APC will not allow defectors take over party structures — Chairman Yilwatda

Prof. Nentewe Yilwatda, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has assured legacy members of the party that political defectors will not be allowed to take over leadership structures.

He gave the assurance on Tuesday while speaking with journalists after a closed-door meeting with the party’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) stakeholders in Abuja.

Yilwatda drew a distinction between founding members of the party and recent entrants, stressing that both groups would be accommodated without allowing any to dominate the other.

“It is a home that we built. If the house was not built, nobody will come, so nobody should come as a warrior and take over,” he said.

He added that the party would adopt a structured power-sharing arrangement to ensure inclusion across different blocs within the APC.

“We must have everybody included; there will be a sharing formula that will ensure that all members of the legacy group and defectors are properly carried along,” he said.

On the APC FCT structure, the chairman outlined a five-point inclusion formula covering gender representation, geopolitical balance across the six geo-political zones, youth participation, and inclusion of indigenous groups within the FCT.

He also confirmed the establishment of a committee chaired by the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Zephaniah Jisalo, noting that its recommendations on zoning and structure had been largely adopted.

Yilwatda said no member had formally complained of marginalisation within the current arrangements, adding that the party’s constitution would guide upcoming congresses.

He further stated that defectors seeking executive positions must provide proof of resignation from their former parties.

“If you are in opposition, you must give a resignation letter and show evidence of resignation and acceptance of your resignation by your former party chairman,” he said.

The APC chairman also referenced tenure limits, saying anyone who has served eight consecutive years in a position must step aside or contest for a different office.

He described inclusion as central to his leadership philosophy, saying it was essential to sustaining party unity.

“We must accommodate all tribes… I am chairing this party because of inclusion. If there is no inclusion, I can’t be here because my tribe is only found in two local governments of this country. I am a minority,” he said.

He also urged greater participation of women in substantive party leadership roles beyond election cycles, describing them as key mobilisers and contributors to party success.